Requirements
A Bachelor's degree in student affairs, higher education, communications, social sciences, or a related field is required, with a postgraduate degree being preferred. Essential experience includes a minimum of 3 years in student engagement, campus life, student leadership, or co-curricular program coordination, along with team management, time management, project management, and proficiency in Microsoft Office, event planning software, and social media platforms. Experience in a multicultural environment and understanding of Middle Eastern working practices are also essential.
Description
Job description / Role
Job Type
Full Time
Job Location
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Nationality
Any Nationality
Salary
Not Specified
Gender
Not Specified
Arabic Fluency
Not Specified
Job Function
Administration & Secretarial
Company Industry
Education & Training
Application open:
Full-time
The Student Engagement Specialist plays a key role in enhancing the undergraduate student experience at MBZUAI by coordinating and delivering a wide range of co-curricular programs and engagement initiatives. This includes onboarding, orientation, transition support, first-year experience, student representation, societies, intramural sports, and campus events. The role supports the strategic objectives of the Student Life function by fostering a dynamic campus culture that promotes student leadership, community responsibility, and belonging.
Key responsibilities
Onboarding, orientation, and transition
Support the planning and execution of comprehensive onboarding and orientation programs for new undergraduate students, ensuring a smooth transition to university life.
Coordinate first-year experience activities in collaboration with academic and student support departments.
Develop informational materials and workshops that prepare students for academic and social success.
Student engagement & community life
Design and implement initiatives that promote student engagement, well-being, and social development.
Facilitate regular opportunities for students to participate in community-building activities, cultural events, and campus traditions.
Promote a culture of respect, inclusion, and responsibility within the student body.
Student representation & societies
Support the election, training, and operations of student representatives and councils.
Provide guidance and oversight to student societies, ensuring compliance with MBZUAI policies and encouraging leadership development.
Act as a liaison between student leaders and the university, advocating for student needs and encouraging active participation in campus life.
Campus events and activities
Plan and coordinate a diverse calendar of campus events, including awareness campaigns, celebrations, and social gatherings that align with MBZUAI’s values and academic calendar.
Manage event logistics, including venue booking, communication, vendor coordination, and promotion in collaboration with Marketing & Communications.
Evaluate the impact of events and gather student feedback for continuous improvement.
Support strategic campus life initiatives led by the Head of Student Engagement.
U18 student engagement & intramural sports
Organize and supervise engagement activities and wellness initiatives for students under the age of 18, ensuring appropriate safeguarding measures are in place.
Develop and manage intramural sports programs that encourage student participation and physical wellness.
Promote physical activity and wellness through competitions, challenges, and recreational events.
Communication & collaboration
Maintain effective communication with students to promote engagement opportunities and ensure awareness of campus life resources.
Work collaboratively with internal stakeholders such as Academic Services, Admissions, Career Services, and Health & Wellbeing to align efforts and enhance student support.
Maintain records of participation and support the development of reports on engagement outcomes and trends.
Academic qualifications required
Bachelor’s degree in student affairs, higher education, communications, social sciences, or a related field.
A postgraduate degree is preferred.
Professional experience required
Essential:
Minimum of 3 years’ experience in student engagement, campus life, student leadership, or co-curricular program coordination.
Experience successfully building, managing, and motivating teams, and empowering individuals including staff and students.
Excellent organizational and time management skills with attention to detail.
Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, event planning software, and social media platforms.
A proactive, student-centered approach with a commitment to student development success story.
Demonstrated success operating in a multicultural environment and adapting systems and processes to meet diverse expectations and needs.
Understanding of Middle Eastern working practices and culture.
Preferred:
Experience successfully working in the UAE.
Arabic speaker.
Apply Now